By Isaac Mission
The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Chris Nkwonta to publicly apologise for remarks the party says could undermine its interests ahead of the 2027 elections.
The directive followed a meeting of the party’s State Working Committee, chaired by Chijioke Chukwu, in Umuahia.
The APC said its decision was prompted by comments attributed to the two lawmakers in support of Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party.
Kalu had reportedly stated during a television programme that Otti was likely to secure another term as governor in 2027. Nkwonta, meanwhile, was said to have declared at a reception organised for the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in Ukwa East that he intended to vote for Otti.
In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the State Working Committee described the comments as damaging to party unity and its electoral ambitions.
The committee maintained that such conduct could constitute a breach of Article 21.2(11) of the APC Constitution, which provides for disciplinary measures against members whose actions are considered harmful to the party.
The party has therefore asked both lawmakers to issue unconditional public apologies within 14 days and reaffirm their loyalty to the APC and its candidates for the 2027 elections.
The Abia APC warned that failure to meet the deadline could lead to the establishment of a disciplinary panel to examine the matter and recommend appropriate sanctions.
It also said political support and privileges enjoyed by either lawmaker could be withdrawn if their actions are found to conflict with the interests of the party.
The state chapter reiterated its commitment to maintaining unity within its ranks and securing the governorship as well as all legislative positions in Abia during the 2027 elections.